Multiple National Events Expected To Bring Big Money Into Tulsa

Tulsa is in the national spotlight for sports and beauty as thousands of people are in town for USA BMX's Grand Nationals, Miss USA, and Miss Teen USA.

Tulsa Regional Tourism said the economic impact of these events over a few days is between $13 and $14 million. Organizers told News On 6 Tulsa is attracting more events because the city is centrally located, affordable and hospitable.

More than 3,000 competitors from 50 states and at least 25 countries are at Expo Square for USA BMX’s Grand Nationals.

"So, bicycle, motocross, BMX racing, this is the culmination of it all,” explained John David with USA BMX.

David said this is the 24th straight year of hosting the event in Tulsa because of the partnerships and people.

"The hoteliers in this town are so incredibly hospitable, and our families love it,” said David. “Truly, in the world of BMX, when people think of Thanksgiving, they think Tulsa.”

Over at River Spirit Casino Resort, crews are setting the stage for Miss USA and Miss Teen USA.

"It's going to have a real great impact not only on facility here but on the city and the region," said Pat Crofts with Muscogee (Creek) Nation Casinos.

Crofts said River Spirit's 500 hotel rooms have been booked for weeks.

"There's a multiplier effect,” said Crofts. “All of the people have to eat, they all flew in, a lot of them flew in through the airports.”

Ashleigh Bachert with Tulsa Regional Tourism told News On 6 the BMX competition has over $10 million in economic impact, while the Miss USA events have an impact of over $3 million.

"It's just a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a destination and a community of our size," explained Bachert.

Bachert said these events could also attract visitors, jobs, and residents.

"The viewership that we're going to see, not just in the U.S., but worldwide is massive," said Bachert.

Miss Teen USA ends Saturday, USA BMX's Grand Nationals wraps up Sunday, and Miss USA finals will be Monday.